Multi-position automated convertible vberth for marine vessels

ABSTRACT

A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels having a pair of independent bunks sections, and guide mechanisms for controlling the physical movement of the bunks from one configuration to another. Included is automatic actuation and electronic controls for activating movement of the bunks from one configuration to another in conjunction with the guide mechanism. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system is convertible between a V-berth configuration and an island bed configuration, eliminates manual operation, and includes automatic deployment and retraction of a table.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/114,960, filed on Feb. 11, 2015.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

N/A

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to cabins for marine vessels andmore particularly to an automated and convertible V-berth havingmultiple positions and features.

2. Description of Related Art

Marine vessel and watercraft designs have included a variety of cabineating, seating, and sleeping arrangements and designs for the boaters.Specifically, there are many different designs for master and questberths pleasure crafts, luxury sport boats and yachts. Many berthsprovide the user with a V-berth as known in the industry, which commonlyincludes two separated sections of sleep beds, cushions or couches in a“V” configuration, and an open central area for accommodatingindividuals in the berth. They also typically have a removable table andsupport arms for use within the open area, along with optional insert(s)to complete a larger bed enclosing the open area, or manually movablesections to create a bed. However, many conventional berths require anoperator to manually remove and reposition bed, support, table and/orfurniture pieces, as well as store these units. The same is true whenreconfiguring the units. This proves to be laborious, cumbersome,inefficient and frustrating, especially when required on a daily basis.

Other conventional designs include power operated devices which controlmovement of certain pieces or units to aid in different elevations orconfigurations, however, none address the inventive subject matterherein.

A further problem is that berths do not provide both a fixed island bedand a V-berth within the same interior section of the boat. The fixedisland bed provides a superior sleeping quarters that is easy to accessfrom a side; alternatively, the V-berth provides the open space fordining and entertainment.

Although prior designs have sought to improve the features, ergonomicsand utility of V-berth and alternative bed/berth configurations andfurniture, and may include certain power operated components to assistwith movement or operation, these designs have failed to adequatelymaximize space, convertibility, or automation, and do not address orsolve the problems mentioned above. For example, U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2010/0018451 issued to Sahr, entitled ConvertibleSeat-Deck Arrangement for a Boat, describes a convertible seat/deckarrangement for a boat, having a generally open U-shaped or V-shapedseating arrangement, for example in a bow rider. In a first conventionalconfiguration the deck arrangement provides horizontal seating aroundits periphery with an open central area; in a second configuration lowervertical deck elements are pivoted from a generally vertical position toa generally horizontal position which essentially completes an uprightcontinuous horizontal surface for occupants. This reference describespivotal legs to support the central deck elements in the horizontalposition, as well as optional use of linear or rotational poweredactuators to move the elements, and a linkage, slot or mechanical guidesystem to guide the deck elements as well. However, this reference doesnot describe specifics or particular means of accomplishing theseoptions.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,714,043, issued to Sheppard, entitled Powered V-BerthPlatform illustrates a powered V-berth platform in which a cushionedplatform fills the “gap” in a V-berth for sleeping, and in its loweredposition the platform acts as a chair or stool in the open area. By useof a control switch, a motorized vertical column with a power screwassembly is coupled to the platform such that it can be raised to ahorizontal position within the open area of the V-berth. The platformthus fills the cutaway area of the V-berth to provide a continuous sleeparea.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,924,798, issued to Lathers, entitled Recreational BoatDinette/Sleeper relates to a convertible seat/dinette/sleeper system forboats, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,517,466, issued to Wizorek et al., describesa convertible boat seat which transforms a standard bench seat to alounge/sleeper.

While these designs provide some optional features and units forconvertible configurations for berths, dinettes and beds, they requireparticular structural mechanisms that are relatively limited in purposeand application, and do not address the need for an automatedconvertible bed of multiple configurations, which also accommodatesseating and entertainment needs.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a better designed, moreefficient multiple position, automated, convertible V-berth for boatswhich is selectively configured for an island bed or V-berth, providesfor and accommodates a seating, dining and entertain configuration, anda system for marine vessels that provides optimum comfort and a varietyof positions while maintaining simple operation and a unifiedappearance.

It is, therefore, to the effective resolution of the aforementionedproblems and shortcomings of the prior art that the present invention isdirected. However, in view of the marine vessel berth, seating andsleeping systems in existence at the time of the present invention, itwas not obvious to those persons of ordinary skill in the pertinent artas to how the identified needs could be fulfilled in an advantageousmanner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides various embodiments of a configurableV-berth seating and sleeping system designed for use on marine vessels.The instant unique designs for a marine vessel relate to automatedconvertible V-berths, which convert from a common V-berth configurationwith a table placed between two (2) separated sofas, seats, or bunksections, to a larger island bed at the push of a button. Starting inthe V-berth configuration, when a switch is pressed the table begins tolower until it reaches a lower limit switch which then triggers theV-berth bunk sections to begin to pivot inwardly until they reach thecenterline of the boat. The table is accommodated beneath the bunksections by way of a slot or opening in the frame of the opposing bunks.Once the bunks are in the center they reveal steps up either side of theisland bed configuration. Pressing the switch in the other direction,the bunks begin to separate until they reach an outboard limit switchwhich then triggers the table to rise until it reaches its highestextent.

The convertible sleep/seating system is automated by simple switchcontrols and accommodates multiple positions between the V-berth seatingand table configurations, and island bed configurations for sleeping orlounging. This system also automatically accommodates selective seatingand entertainment configurations aside from the different bed types. Iteliminates having to lower or remove tables to convert a berth, and theuse of separate cushions and support members fill V-berth open areas. Italso eliminates the need to manually move separate bunks together, andalso automatically provides an island bed with stepped side-bed access.Finally, and most significantly, it eliminates the need to choose a boatwith either a V-berth or an island bed, as both are provided with theinstant invention at the selection of the occupants.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide amultiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating, sleeping anddining system.

It is another object of the present invention to accomplish the multipleposition, automatic convertible V-berth seating, sleeping and diningsystem configurations with an operationally efficient and cost effectivemechanical and electrical design.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a completelyautomated convertible berth configuration system which easily convertsfrom a V-berth arrangement to an island bed arrangement and eliminatesthe need for manual operation or accessory furniture pieces.

Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a multipleposition, automatic convertible V-berth seating, sleeping and diningsystem having all of the above features and objects.

In accordance with these and other objects which will become apparenthereinafter, the instant invention will now be described with particularreference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertibleV-berth system of the present invention in an open V-berthconfiguration.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertibleV-berth system of the present invention in a closed island bedconfiguration.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertibleV-berth system of the present invention in an intermediate positionbetween the open V-berth configuration and the closed island bedconfiguration.

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berthsystem of the present invention in an open seating configuration.

FIG. 2B is a top plan view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berthsystem of the present invention in a closed seating configuration.

FIG. 3A is a bottom plan drawing view of one embodiment of theconvertible berth system of the present invention in an open V-berthconfiguration.

FIG. 3B is an exploded partial drawing view taken along line B of FIG.3A.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theconvertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed islandbed configuration.

FIG. 5A is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of theconvertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open seatingconfiguration.

FIG. 5B is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of theconvertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed seatingconfiguration.

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theconvertible V-berth system of the present invention illustrating an openconfiguration for seating in conjunction with a central hub providingutility features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1A, shown is a perspective view of the multipleposition automated and convertible V-berth system 10 of the presentinvention in an opened configuration. The v-berth system includes a leftbunk section 12 and a right bunk section 13 which form a V-shapedconfiguration toward the center hub 11. In some embodiments, the V-berthsystem is designed within the bow area of the vessel, such that the leftand right sections 12 and 13 converge toward the center hub 11. Alsoshown are bunk section bases 112 and 113 which form the supportstructure for the respective bunk section 112 and 113. In someembodiments, each bunk section base 112 and 113 includes an elongatedslot 19 that is configured to contain retractable table 14 when thesystem is operated. As such, disposed between the left and rightsections 12 and 14 is a retractable table 14. Table 14 is supported by atelescoping support column 15. It can be seen that in this openconfiguration occupants can be seated upon the bunks 12 and 13 withsufficient leg area above deck 16 and beneath table 14. Thisconfiguration is a typical configuration for utilizing the vessel duringcruising or entertaining, dining and the like.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the convertible berth system 10 in aclosed, sleeping position. It can be seen that left and right sections12 and 13 have automatically moved into position such that they are nowaligned with one another in direct contact in the center of the bertharea forming a bed. Table 14 is no longer visible, as it has beenretracted beneath the left and right sections 12 and 13. In someembodiments, the left and right sections 12 and 13 articulate aboutcentral hub 11 to reach the full closed, sleeping position shown. Inthis position, around the perimeter of the bed can be seen left andright steps 17 and 18 which are now accessible such that one can accessthe now-formed bed easily from either side, as well as from the front.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the V-berth system 10 shown in anintermediate position between the open and closed positions shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B. Starting in the open position, the system is activatedby way of a remote switch which begins operation by retracting the table14 downward. In some embodiments, the table 14 retracts to its lowestposition such that the table 14 itself is at an elevation matching thatof the elongated slot 19 of each bunk section 12 and 13. Once the table14 reaches its lowest position, a limit switch engages such that theleft and right bunk section 12 and 13 begin to move inward by rotatingabout central hub 11. The slots 19 of the respective bunk sections 12and 13 are aligned with the table such that they receive at least aportion of the table 14 on either side. Accordingly, the table 14remains protected and concealed from view once the system 10 reaches theclosed position shown in FIG. 1B. When the system is activated again tomove from the closed position to the open position, the bunk sections 12and 13 separate to their widest, open position and then a limit switchis engaged such that the table 14 to moves upward to its tallestposition.

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the open configuration shown in FIG. 1A,and FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the closed configuration shown in FIG.1B. From here it can be seen how left and right bunk sections 12 and 13articulate towards each other about central hub 11 to operate from theopen position to the closed position. Also, steps 17 and 18 can be seenmore clearly, each disposed on either side of the bed formed by left andright bunk sections 12 and 13.

FIG. 3A is a partial bottom plan view of the view shown in FIG. 2A,depicting one embodiment of the mechanism by which left and right bunksections 12 and 13 operate about central hub 11. In some embodiments,left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 include respective bunk frames12′ and 13′. Left and right bunk guides 31 and 32 are attached to therespective sides of central hub 11 and provide arcuate action for thebunk sections 12 and 13. Actuators 33 and 34 are attached to therespective bunk sections 12 and 13, and in some embodiments, directly toleft and right bunk frames 12′ and 13′. The detail of this engagement isshown in close-up FIG. 3B. When actuated, the actuators lengthen so asto move the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 along the respective bunkguides 31 and 32 in arcuate fashion. In some embodiments, the actuators33 and 34 comprise electronic linear actuators. In other embodiments,the actuators 33 and 34 can comprise gas or hydraulic struts that areelectronically activated by a remote switch. Also shown is table controlmechanism 35 which assists the retracting action of the table 14 whenthe system is activated.

FIG. 5 illustrates the convertible berth system in a closed island bedconfiguration. The V-berth system 10 pivots together such that left andright bunk sections 12 and 13 form a bed. Also provided in someembodiments are wing cushions 40 and 42 which can pop up from the sidesof the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 to complete the island bedwith additional shoulder room. In this embodiment, step 17 and 18 becomeaccessible such that an occupant can approach the island bed from eitherside. Optional lighting can be incorporated within the steps, about thelower section of the island bed, within the sides of the bow area, orthe like.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention wherein a plurality of V-berth systems 50, 51 and 12 areprovided inside the cabin of a marine vessel. These are illustrated eachin an open configuration providing various seating positions andoptions. FIG. 4B is a top plan view in correlation to FIG. 4A depictingthe systems 50, 51, and 52 in closed configuration such that each systemprovides a bed. FIG. 4C shows one V-berth system 53 consisting of leftand right seat sections 55 and 56 in an open configuration about centralhub 54. Central hub 54 is, in some embodiments, a utility pieceincluding a cabinet 57, sink 58 and compartments 59.

The automation of the system 10 provides a single step operation of theentire system. With the push of a button, the table 14 lowers and bunksections converge on the center line of the boat creating an island bed.With a push of the button again the bunks separate and the table risesfor a dining configuration. The actuation of the berth allows for aconversion between a dinette and an island bed. When a limit switch orother electronic switch is triggered, the electric actuators move thebunk sections along the curved guides until the section meet. In someembodiments, there is an over current switch that limits the actuatorand stops the bunk sections at the center of the boat. When reversed,the bunk sections articulate outboard until they reach an outer limitand then the table 14 telescopes up by means of an electric tablecontrol mechanism 35, such as a ram or strut or piston.

It is appreciated and understood that the present invention is designedto be modular for a wide variety of applications on a marine vesselwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Forexample, the bunk sections 12 and 13 may comprised a flat planar membersfor use as a bed when in the closed position. Alternatively, thesections 12 and 13 may be configured as chairs and/or sofas as depictedin other figures, while still being to be closed together to formsleeping or lounging furniture. Surrounding structure may also beprovided, such as bulkhead padding shown in the figures or seat backsthat enhance versatility and functionality. The materials selected neednot be considered limiting, although various combinations of fiberglass,wood, resins, plastics, and the like can be incorporated in the finalstructure.

The instant invention has been shown and described herein in what isconsidered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It isrecognized, however, that departures may be made therefrom within thescope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to aperson skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A multiple position automated convertible V-berthsystem for marine vessels, comprising: a pair of bunk sections; guidemeans for controlling physical movement of said bunks; automaticactuation and electronic control means for activating movement of saidbunk sections from one configuration to another in conjunction with saidguide means; said multiple position automated convertible V-berth systemis convertible between a V-berth configuration and an bed configuration;wherein in said V-berth configuration, sale pair of bunk sections arespaced apart and separated; and wherein in said bed configuration saidpair of bunk sections are pushed together to form a bed.
 2. The multipleposition automated convertible V-berth system of claim 1, furtherincluding a telescoping table disposed between said pair of bunksection.
 3. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth systemof claim 1, wherein said guide means comprises mechanical guidesproviding for arcuate movement of said bunks.
 4. The multiple positionautomated convertible V-berth system of claim 3, wherein said guidemeans includes electronic linear actuators to impart movement of saidbunks.
 5. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system ofclaim 4, wherein said automatic actuation and electronic control meansis comprised of electronic switches and control circuits enablingoperation of said electronic linear actuators.
 6. The multiple positionautomated convertible V-berth system of claim 1, further including acentral hub about which said pair of bunk sections articulate.
 7. Themultiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 6,wherein said guide means comprise guide members attaching said centralhub to each of said bunk sections.
 8. A multiple position automatedconvertible V-berth system for marine vessels, comprising: a left bunksection and a right bunk section; said bunk sections attached to andconfigured to articulate about a central hub; a retractable tabledisposed between said bunk sections; wherein in an open position saidleft and right bunk sections are spaced apart and separated; and whereinin said closed position, said left and right bunk sections are broughttogether to form a bed and said retractable table is retracted downwardand stored in said bunk sections.
 9. The multiple position automatedconvertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 8, wherein saidbunk sections articulate by way of guides attaching said bunk sectionsto said central hub.
 10. The multiple position automated convertibleV-berth system for marine vessels of claim 8, wherein in said closedposition, said retractable table is accommodated by an elongated slot ofeach of said bunk sections.
 11. The multiple position automatedconvertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 8, wherein saidbunk sections and said retractable table are automatically actuated andelectronically controlled by way of one or more electronic switchesoperating one or more actuators.
 12. The multiple position automatedconvertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 12, wherein saidone or more actuators comprise electronic linear actuators, hydraulicstruts, rams, pistons, or combinations thereof.